Director of Finance and Business Operations

Job Description

Lafayette Catholic School System
Director of Finance and Business Operations

The Director of Finance and Business Operations for the Lafayette Catholic School System (LCSS) provides strategic financial leadership, ensuring the fiscal health, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability of LCSS. The Director of School System Finances works collaboratively with the President of LCSS, the Board of Directors, principals, and other key stakeholders to implement sound financial practices that support the mission of Catholic education. This position reports to the President of LCSS.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Strategy and Oversight.
Develop and implement a comprehensive financial strategy that aligns with the mission and vision of LCSS.
Provide accurate and timely financial reporting, analysis, and forecasting to support informed decision-making.
Oversee the budgeting process for LCSS, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability.
Lead long-term financial planning efforts to promote sustainability and growth.
Manage staff performing bookkeeping and finance office coordination.

Budgeting and Financial Management
Prepare and manage annual budgets.
Monitor and analyze monthly financial performance and provide actionable insights to ensure alignment with budget goals.
Develop financial models and forecasts to evaluate the impact of enrollment trends, tuition structures, and other key variables.
Prepare monthly close journal entries relating to payroll, revenue recognition, fund adjustments, and other transactions relating to financial oversight of accounting.

Tuition and Revenue Optimization
Collaborate with key LCSS personnel to establish tuition pricing strategies that balance affordability and financial sustainability.
Coordinate with staff that oversee tuition assistance and scholarship programs to maximize accessibility for families and compliance with all applicable regulations.
Identify opportunities to diversify revenue streams and support fundraising efforts.

Internal Controls and Compliance
Establish robust internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with diocesan policies, accounting standards, and applicable regulations.
Coordinate and oversee annual audits and ensure prompt resolution of any findings.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations and reporting requirements.

School Financial Support and Training
Provide financial guidance, training, and resources to LCSS staff.
Develop and implement policies and procedures to strengthen the financial acumen of LCSS leadership.
Assist with financial challenges, ensuring corrective measures are implemented when necessary.

Endowment and Investment Management
Collaborate with the LCSS Advancement Office to oversee the management of school endowments and other investments.
Ensure that investment strategies align with Catholic social teaching and diocesan guidelines.

Requirements
Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Master's degree or CPA strongly preferred.
Minimum of 5-10 years of senior-level financial leadership experience, preferably within a school system, nonprofit, or faith-based organization.
Demonstrated success in strategic financial planning, budgeting, and operational management.
Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and nonprofit financial practices. Experience in Fund Accounting, 2 years
Experience with NFP Accounting, 2+ years
Experience with accounting systems such as NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Microsoft Dynamics, 3+ Years
Group managerial experience, 1+ yr.
Pre-hire aptitude and personality tests required
Background check required

Skills and Competencies
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Proficiency in financial management software and the Microsoft Office Suite.
High degree of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the mission of Catholic education.

Working Conditions and Other Considerations
Full-time, exempt position requiring occasional evening and weekend commitments.
Travel within the Lafayette Diocese may be required to visit schools, attend meetings, or events.

Benefits
Paid Time Off
403b Retirement w/Matching
Health Insurance

Salary Description: Commensurate with experience.

About the Employer

The Lafayette Catholic School System, centered on Jesus Christ, educates the whole person in a culture that is:
• sustained by Gospel witness and service;
• imbued with a Catholic worldview;
• supported by a community of faith;
• distinguished by academic excellence; and
• committed to student success.